Blue Jackets 2, Canucks 1 SO
The cannon fired a few extra times in Nationwide Arena as the hometown team defeated the defending Western Conference champions in a thrilling shootout.
As expected, Steve Mason was given the nod for the first time since losing his starting role to Curtis Sanford. Much to the delight of the Blue Jackets, Mason returned to original form turning aside 30 of 31 shots.
Columbus’ great flow the offensive zone, paired with tape-to-tape passes and excellent shot selection, kept the Canucks honest in front of goalie Roberto Luongo.
Successful penalty killing also played a prominent role in the game. Vancouver, who boasted the leagues top power play coming into the game, was unable to convert on four opportunities.
Jeff Carter scored the game’s first goal when he slid the puck under the outstretched leg of Luongo. The goal came on a four-on-three power play and was Carter’s third in as many games.
Columbus held the lead through two dangerous penalty kills, but Mason’s shutout was finally shattered at even-strength in the third period. The Canucks’ goal came off the stick of Max Lapierre who capitalized on a brilliant behind-the-net pass from Chris Higgins.
After 65 minutes, the teams found themselves in a 1-1 stalemate. Mason’s return to the ice would be determined in a skills competition.
Coach Scott Arniel picked Mark Letestu, Rick Nash, and James Wisniewski to represent the Blue Jackets in the shootout. Each player proved his worth.
Letestu and Nash scored on Columbus’ first two opportunities, leaving it up to surprise pick James Wisniewski to ice the game. Wisniewski cruised in on goal, then pulled a “Mary Lou how do you do” before sliding the biscuit under Luongo’s left pad.
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